Craving a burst of freshness in your meal? This 10-Minute Lemon Basil Pesto Pasta is just what you need. It’s vibrant, flavorful, and comes together in a flash, making it the ideal choice for busy weeknights or a last-minute lunch. With just a handful of ingredients, you’ll find yourself transported to an Italian trattoria with every bite.
What I love about this recipe is its simplicity. You can whip it up in just 10 minutes and have a delicious dish on the table that tastes like it took hours to prepare. The zesty lemon combined with fragrant basil creates a sauce that dances on your taste buds, making this pasta a delightful treat.
Whether you’re cooking for yourself or hosting friends, this Lemon Basil Pesto Pasta will impress without a lot of fuss. It’s versatile too; you can easily add grilled chicken or vegetables to customize it to your preference.
10-Minute Lemon Basil Pesto Pasta
This easy pasta dish features a bright and tangy lemon basil pesto that’s both creamy and refreshing. The pasta absorbs the vibrant flavors, making each bite an explosion of taste. It’s quick to prepare and perfect for those who want flavorful food without the long wait.
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta of choice (spaghetti, penne, etc.)
- 2 cups fresh basil leaves
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup pine nuts or walnuts
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Juice and zest of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cherry tomatoes for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a cup of pasta water.
- Prepare the Pesto: In a food processor, combine basil leaves, Parmesan cheese, nuts, garlic, lemon juice, and zest. Pulse until finely chopped.
- Add Olive Oil: With the food processor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until the mixture is well combined and creamy. If the pesto is too thick, add a bit of reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
- Combine: In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the lemon basil pesto. Toss until evenly coated, adding more pasta water if needed to help the sauce adhere.
- Season: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Serve immediately, garnished with cherry tomatoes if desired.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 370kcal
- Fat: 25g
- Protein: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
